Trump imposes 17% tariff on Mexican tomatoes

July 15, 2025

The US has implemented an immediate 17% tariff on most Mexican tomato imports after withdrawing from a longstanding trade agreement, claiming it failed to protect American tomato growers from unfairly priced Mexican products. US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated American farmers have been harmed by unfair trade practices, while Mexico rejected accusations of dumping and attributed their tomatoes' popularity to quality. The tariff is expected to increase prices at supermarkets and restaurants, particularly affecting tomato-based products like pizza sauces and salsas, with proponents arguing it will boost domestic tomato sales despite Mexico's assertion that their volume of exports cannot be easily replaced.

Who is affected

US consumers who will face higher prices at supermarkets and restaurants
Pizza parlors and Mexican eateries
US tomato growers
Mexican tomato exporters and growers
Producers of tomato-based products like pizza sauces and salsas

What action is being taken

The US is imposing a 17% tariff on most Mexican tomato imports with immediate effect
The US has withdrawn from the 2019 suspension agreement with Mexico
The Mexican government is attempting to negotiate a new deal
Mexico is promising to help its tomato growers find new markets

Why it matters

70% of tomatoes consumed in the US are imported from Mexico
The tariff will likely lead to higher prices for tomato products in the US
Supporters believe the tariff will encourage consumers to buy US-grown tomatoes
Mexico contends it would be "impossible to substitute Mexican tomatoes" given the volume they export
This is part of broader trade tensions, with the US president threatening additional 30% tariffs on all Mexican goods

What's next

The Mexican government will try to negotiate a new deal before its producers are significantly affected
Mexico plans to help its tomato growers find new markets

Read full article from source: BBC